Brooklyn based indie-rockers The National are comprised of two sets of brothers and a singer with a mean baritone. By mean we mean shining in its lucidity.

Fresh off the release of their new album High Violet the band has used this summer to change some pre-conceived notions about their live show. What The National lack in head-banging rock anthems they make up for in high energy, soulful performances without the slightest sting of pomp or pretension. They tell stories of dis-affected youth and the pangs of adulthood that bring to mind names like Bruce Springsteen or The Smiths. After hitting the festival circuit this year chances are you or someone you know has been made a convert to their message.

The National recently played Spinner's "The Interface". Here's "Afraid of Everyone" off of High Violet.